Petaluma City Schools became a Google Apps for Education district in the Summer of 2012. Over the past year the staff has been learn and testing out all the Google products. We have attended many trainings and conferences to become more familiar with all you can do with Google.
Now, it is the kids turn to have fun!
Over the next few weeks your student will be getting their Google address. It will be their name @petk12.org. While in Junior High, students can only send and receive emails from addresses owned by the school district. This account will remain with the student through 12th grade. However, Google Apps for Education is more than just email, it is a powerful tool to help our students learn and be prepared to work in 21st century jobs.
Above is a diagram of how the new Common Core Standards and technology need to work together. Educators need to teach students how to incorporate technology into their work, it is not a stand alone item. Google Apps for Education includes mail, documents, calendar, sites and much more. These products are provided to school districts at no cost and advertisement free. These products provide educators with the tools to successfully integrate technology into their teaching and prepare students to be college and career ready with the needed 21st century skills. They allow teachers and students to create, collaborate and share ideas. Introducing students to these apps is so awesome! The school will be following up throughout the year with cyber safety lessons. We also will have a cybersfaety night for parents. More info to come! This is such an exciting time in education and I am glad to share it with you and your fabulous students.
